Bioactive profile and anti-UV activities of ethyl acetate extract of Rhizophora apiculata leaves

Mangroves plants such as Rhizophora apiculata are known to possess a diverse array of bioactive compounds with antioxidant and photoprotective properties. This study aimed to evaluate the anti-UV activity and bioactive composition of the ethyl acetate extract of R. apiculata leaves. The extraction was performed using the maceration method over 3 × 24 hours with ethyl acetate as the solvent. UV absorption was assessed using UV-Visible spectrophotometry, while compound identification was carried out through Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). The extract exhibited significant UV absorption in the 290–320 nm range, with Sun Protection Factor (SPF) values ranging from 2.530 ± 0.03 (low protection) to 37.080 ± 0.47 (high protection), indicating strong potential as a natural sunscreen agent. GC-MS analysis revealed several bioactive constituents, including lupeol, friedelan-3-one, cyclohexane-1,3,5-triphenyl, α-tocopherol, and 1,3,5,7-cyclooctatetraene—compounds recognized for their UV-absorbing and antioxidant activities. The synergistic action of these phytochemicals is believed to contribute to the extract’s overall photoprotective efficacy.Keywords:Rhizophora apiculataBioactive compoundsAnti-UVExtractEthyl Acetate